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Vancouver off the beaten path

Created by Robyn Hanson

You could literally spend weeks exploring the Metro Vancouver region and not see it all. However if you wish to get off the beaten tourist path, here's a sampling of the destinations worth considering.

Located south-east of downtown Vancouver along Main Street (between E 5th Avenue and King Ed), this hip and happening neighbourhood is home to some of Vancouver’s best independent boutique shopping (local designers, record stores, book shops, vintage clothing), with eccentric cafes, restaurants, and lounges. Very art school chic and great people watching.

Experience the excitement of the early West Coast fur trade at Fort Langley and stand in the spot where BC was proclaimed a British colony in 1858. Explore the scenic fort—built by the Hudson’s Bay Company in 1827—where fur traders once exchanged furs, salmon and cranberries with the First Nations. Fort Langley is packed with interactive displays and activities for the whole family...
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Experience the excitement of the early West Coast fur trade at Fort Langley and stand in the spot where BC was proclaimed a British colony in 1858. Explore the scenic fort—built by the Hudson’s Bay Company in 1827—where fur traders once exchanged furs, salmon and cranberries with the First Nations. Fort Langley is packed with interactive displays and activities for the whole family – watch blacksmithing, barrel-making or historic weapons demonstrations, pan for gold and laugh along with an interpretive program!• Take exit #66 (232nd St. North), just 40 minutes east of Vancouver• Open daily year round. September to June 10 am - 5 pm• Sxwimelә Boutique and Gifts• Full Barrel Cafe (summer)• Free parking• Walking distance to Fort Langley village shopping, museums, walking trails and dining. See our daily programs and events calendar online. Less

Built in 1894 in the historic fishing village of Steveston, the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site is one of B.C.'S few historically intact canneries. The 120 year old cannery is now home to a museum commemorating the history of Canada's West Coast fishing industry from the 1870's to the present. Learn about our unique local history through interactive exhibits and...
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Built in 1894 in the historic fishing village of Steveston, the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site is one of B.C.'S few historically intact canneries. The 120 year old cannery is now home to a museum commemorating the history of Canada's West Coast fishing industry from the 1870's to the present. Learn about our unique local history through interactive exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages! Less

Situated upon 850 acres along the Fraser estuary at the mouth of the Fraser River, the George C. Reifel Migratory bird sanctuary is a must for birding enthusiasts. Easy hiking trails, bird blinds, and panoramic views await. See eagles, owls, hawks, falcons, waterfowl, songbirds, and the elusive Sandhill Crane.

Open year round and located only 45 minutes from Vancouver, Step Into The Wild at the largest zoo in BC! Discover the sights and sounds of over 500 animals (140 species) on 120 acres of land in the beautiful Fraser Valley! Experience the Zoo your way by bringing your own wagons, roller blades, bikes, skateboards, and picnic lunches. Ride the miniature train, watch a variety of daily...
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Open year round and located only 45 minutes from Vancouver, Step Into The Wild at the largest zoo in BC! Discover the sights and sounds of over 500 animals (140 species) on 120 acres of land in the beautiful Fraser Valley! Experience the Zoo your way by bringing your own wagons, roller blades, bikes, skateboards, and picnic lunches. Ride the miniature train, watch a variety of daily educational talks & feedings and be sure to catch one of the Birds of Prey presentations! The playground and large picnic areas are great for birthdays, company BBQ's, group events or family picnics. In the summer, spend a Night In The Wild as you camp overnight inside the Zoo, and be sure to sign up for one of our popular Junior Zoologist Day Camps! Since 1970, the Greater Vancouver Zoo is focused on enriching our guests experiences with entertaining enriching activities about the wonderful world of animals. Less

Fee: Yes
Duration of visit: 2-3 hours

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Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

About this expert

Robyn Hanson has travelled extensively around the west coast of North America. She works full time as a travel blogger and moonlights as a travel and food photographer.

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